Top 5 Cleaning Challenges in Portsmouth Homes and How to Tackle Them

1. Salt and Sand from the Sea

The problem:
If you live near Southsea Beach or the harbour, you’ve probably seen white marks on your windows or outdoor furniture. That’s salt from the sea air. Over time, it can make windows look cloudy and cause metal to rust. And let’s not forget sand – it sticks to shoes, dogs, and kids, and ends up all over your floors. Sand is tiny, but it can scratch wooden floors and get stuck in carpets.

Easy fix:

• Wipe outdoor areas often: Use clean water or a mix of white vinegar and water (50/50) to clean windows and doors. Then dry with a cloth.

• Use stainless steel outdoors: Metal railings, furniture, or fixtures last longer if they’re made from stainless steel or have a protective layer.

• Stop sand at the door: Put a doormat outside and inside your front door. Have a place to leave sandy shoes and dry wet feet or paws.

• Vacuum often: Sand can damage floors, so vacuum once or twice a week – more often after beach visits.

2. Damp and Mould

The problem:
Portsmouth weather is damp, especially in winter. This can lead to mould in bathrooms, kitchens, or cold corners of the house. Older homes without modern damp protection are more likely to have this issue. You may notice black spots, peeling paint, or a musty smell.

Easy fix:

• Keep air moving: Open windows when cooking or showering. Use extractor fans. Good airflow helps reduce dampness.

• Use dehumidifiers or moisture traps: These pull water from the air. Great for bedrooms, hallways, and cupboards.

• Clean up water fast: Wipe away condensation, spills, or steam quickly. Don’t let wet clothes sit around the house.

• Remove mould safely: Use a mix of hydrogen peroxide and water (1 part peroxide to 2 parts water) to scrub mouldy spots. Wear gloves and dry the area well.

• Check for leaks: Sometimes mould comes from a leaking pipe or blocked gutter. Fix these as soon as possible.

3. Wind and Muddy Floors

The problem:
Strong winds in Portsmouth can blow rain and mud into porches, hallways, and even living rooms. After a storm, your front steps, rugs, and floors can be full of muck – especially if you have kids or dogs.

Easy fix:

• Double up on doormats: Use a tough mat outside and a soft one inside. Put a tray under the shoe rack to catch water and dirt.

• Brush off shoes and paws: Use a boot brush or towel before coming in. Rinse muddy shoes outdoors if needed.

• Clean floors often: After rainy days, vacuum or mop the entry area. Shake rugs outside to get rid of hidden dirt.

• Wipe doors and walls: Clean porch walls, doorframes, and windows when they get splashed with rain and mud.

4. Moss and Green Slime

The problem:
Portsmouth’s wet weather helps moss, algae, and green slime grow on patios, driveways, fences, and roofs. It makes surfaces slippery and can damage walls or wood over time.

Easy fix:

• Scrub green areas: Use a brush and patio cleaner or a vinegar-water mix to clean mossy spots.

• Use a pressure washer: For bigger areas like driveways or patios, a power wash once or twice a year works well.

• Cut back plants: Trim bushes and trees so sunlight can dry out wet surfaces.

• Keep gutters clean: Blocked gutters cause water to spill over and create damp areas where moss grows easily.

5. Pet Hair and Everyday Mess

The problem:
Whether you have dogs, cats, or both, pet hair can build up fast – especially on sofas, rugs, and clothes. Add in crumbs, dust, and day-to-day dirt, and it can feel like you’re always cleaning.

Easy fix:

• Brush pets regularly: Do it outside if you can. Less loose hair means less cleaning indoors.

• Use lint rollers and rubber gloves: These work well for removing hair from furniture.

• Vacuum smart: Use a vacuum with strong suction and pet hair tools. Clean carpets and upholstery often.

• Use washable covers: Throw blankets or covers on sofas and beds. They’re easy to remove and wash.